FIFA WCQ: Chelle Keeps Injured Nwabali, Leaves Out Akor

Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has released his final 23-man squad for next month’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Rwanda and South Africa, with goalkeeper Stanley Nwabili making the list despite sustaining an injury during the week.

Nwabili, who plays for Chippa United in South Africa, has been Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper in recent fixtures.

His inclusion comes as a surprise to many observers after he reportedly picked up a knock earlier in training.

The coaching crew has, however, expressed confidence in his recovery before the qualifiers.

In contrast, Sevilla’s rising star Adam Akor has been left out of the squad.

The young forward, who was widely tipped for a call-up after his fine run of form in Spain, was omitted as Chelle opted for more experienced attacking options, including Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Samuel Chukwueze.

Captain William Troost-Ekong, midfield dynamo Alex Iwobi, Raphael Onyedika, and Wilfred Ndidi also made the list, while Greece-based goalkeeper Adeleye Adebayo and Unity Cup sensations Felix Agu and Benjamin Fredericks return to the fold.

Forwards Christantus Uche and Tolu Arokodare, who impressed in the June friendly against Russia, were also included.

The Super Eagles will host the Amavubi of Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Saturday, September 6, before traveling to Bloemfontein to face South Africa’s Bafana Bafana on Tuesday, September 9.

Final List of 23 Super Eagles for Rwanda & South Africa

Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabili (Chippa United, South Africa); Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars, Tanzania); Adeleye Adebayo (Volos FC, Greece)

Defenders: William Troost-Ekong (Al-Kholood, Saudi Arabia); Calvin Bassey (Fulham, England); Olaoluwa Aina (Nottingham Forest, England); Bright Osayi-Samuel (Birmingham City, England); Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiakos, Greece); Chidozie Awaziem (Nantes, France); Felix Agu (Werder Bremen, Germany); Benjamin Fredericks (Dender, Belgium)

Midfielders: Alex Iwobi (Fulham, England); Frank Onyeka (Brentford, England); Wilfred Ndidi (Besiktas, Turkey); Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Lazio, Italy); Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium); Christantus Uche (Getafe, Spain)

Forwards: Ademola Lookman (Atalanta, Italy); Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy); Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray, Turkey); Moses Simon (Paris FC, France); Cyriel Dessers (Rangers, Scotland); Tolu Arokodare (Genk, Belgium)

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